How does Malaysia differentiate between banning Israeli citizens and Jewish people?

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Malaysia Differentiates Between Banning Israeli Citizens and Jewish People

Malaysia's policy specifically targets the entry of Israeli citizens, not individuals of the Jewish faith, a distinction rooted in the nation's longstanding opposition to Israel's actions in Palestine. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has consistently clarified that the ban is against Israeli nationals due to their government's policies and actions, not based on religious affiliation. This stance has been maintained for several decades, reflecting a consistent foreign policy principle.
Opposition to Israeli Actions as the Basis for the Ban

The rationale behind Malaysia's policy is its strong condemnation of Israel's conduct in Palestine and Gaza. Anwar Ibrahim has articulated that the ban is a direct response to what Malaysia perceives as Israel's involvement in murders, crimes, and the ongoing oppression and colonisation of Palestinian territories. This position is not arbitrary but is presented as a principled stand against perceived human rights violations and international law transgressions by the Israeli state.
A Long-Standing Policy Not Violating International Law

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has asserted that Malaysia's policy of barring Israeli citizens does not contravene international laws. He highlighted that this prohibition has been in place for decades, predating recent geopolitical developments or specific incidents. Furthermore, he pointed out that several other countries also impose restrictions on the entry of Israeli nationals, suggesting that such policies are not unique to Malaysia and do not inherently violate international legal norms.
Sovereign Right to Determine National Policy

Malaysia views its immigration policy as an exercise of its sovereign rights as an independent nation. The government maintains that it is entitled to determine who may enter its borders based on its national interests and foreign policy objectives. This principle underscores Malaysia's refusal to be pressured by external entities, such as US lawmakers, into altering a policy that it deems essential to its stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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How does Malaysia differentiate between banning Israeli citizens and Jewish people?

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